MALIBU, CA (January 3, 2003)– Boasting “the highest feel-good factor of any car built today,” the editors of Robb Report have selected the Mercedes-Benz SL55 AMG as the magazine’s 2003 Car of the Year.

Scheduled to be formally announced at the 2003 Greater Los Angeles Auto Show on January 3, the award is presented annually to an automobile, formally introduced in the previous year, whose technical designs, styling and performance position it as the world’s preeminent sports or luxury car.

In a cover piece authored by Contributing Writer Robert Farago, the SL55 AMG was praised as a “rare, achingly beautiful car that makes every journey a combination of fun and satisfaction. Thanks to its luxury interior, folding hardtop, and flexible engine, the SL55 never fails to relax you—even as it invigorates.”

Attesting to the SL55’s prowess, the magazine lauds the SL55’s V-8 engine, which generates “a massive 493 horsepower. Equally important, the 5.5-liter block develops 516 lb.-ft. of torque between 2,650 and 4,500 rpm. In other words, the SL55 gives you all its epic power at any speed, in any gear.”

Mr. Farago’s comments were echoed by Robb Report Senior Vice President and Editorial Director Brett Anderson: “The Mercedes-Benz SL55 AMG is the ultimate combination of style and performance that delivers on every front,” he stated. “Of the nine vehicles that we tested, it was the only car that absolutely won everyone over.”

Selection of the SL55 AMG resulted from months of testing by a panel of experts that included Mr. Anderson, Senior Vice President/Creative Director and automotive editor of The Robb Report Collection Robert Ross, Editor-at-Large Paul Dean, and Associate Editor Christian Gulliksen, as well as esteemed nationally Ken Gross, Patrick C. Paternie, J.P. Vettraino, Howard Walker and Mr. Farago.

Scheduled to hit newsstands on January 23, Robb Report’s February issue provides discriminating automotive enthusiasts with an in-depth exploration of a wide array of new models and emerging technologies. Coverage also includes after-market products for the finest class of luxury cars and the most sought-after and elegant vintage vehicles.

Now in its 27th year, Robb Report is the international authority on the luxury lifestyle. Each month, the magazine reports on issues and trends affecting the affluent market, with coverage of exclusive events and features on exceptional automobiles, motorcycles, aircraft, art, jewelry, watches, fashion, travel, homes, wines, spirits and cigars.